Darwin Nunez and Uruguay team-mates involved in brawl with fans after Copa America semi-final loss to Colombia
Uruguay's team members, including Darwin Nunez, entered the stands after reports of violence erupting in the designated family section following Colombia's 1-0 victory in the semi-finals of the Copa America. The organizer of the tournament, CONMEBOL, has criticized the act of violence.
Today is Thursday, July 11, 2024 at 1:07 PM in the United Kingdom.
Liverpool player Darwin Nunez got into a fight with fans following Uruguay's loss to Colombia in the Copa America semi-final.
Uruguayan players, like Nunez, entered the spectator area at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte following reports of a disturbance in the section reserved for the players' families.
Video showed Nunez climbing over railings and approaching Colombian fans, while some people attempted to hold him back.
Sky Sports News has learned that Liverpool plans to reach out to the Uruguayan Federation to clarify what happened in the incident.
Additionally, we know that the club will make contact with the player to ensure his and his family's well-being out of obligation and concern.
Uruguay players stated that they went into the crowd to protect their loved ones.
Luis Suarez mentioned that while it is natural to want to protect your family when they are being attacked, it is important to consider the impact that this response may have on your public image.
We had to keep our families safe. I saw many relatives, especially children of my fellow team members, in danger with objects falling around them. It was a helpless feeling.
Uruguayan defender Jose Gimenez spoke with FOX Soccer and revealed that a group of Colombian fans threatened their families. He described the situation as a catastrophe and expressed concern for the safety of his loved ones.
CONMEBOL issued a statement following the match expressing its firm disapproval of any violence that impacts the game.
The statement mentioned that our work is centered around the belief that soccer brings people together and builds a sense of unity through its uplifting principles.
We do not tolerate intolerance and violence, whether on the field or off. We encourage everyone to channel their passion into supporting their national teams and enjoying a memorable celebration in the days ahead.
Colombia emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, thanks to Jefferson Lerma's goal in the first half. Despite being down to 10 players after Dani Munoz received a red card just before halftime, Colombia managed to hold on to their lead until the final whistle.
They are set to face off against Argentina in the final this upcoming Monday.